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Honduras

If you’re after pristine beaches, a laidback lifestyle and some awesome Mayan ruins then look no further. Honduras is resplendent with rivers, reefs, ruins and even the occasional (dormant) volcano. Explore the explosion of colour at the world’s second-largest barrier reef, cycle over hills and through banana plantations, hangout with locals over a licuado or gaze up at the swaying palms as you recharge on a perfect beach.

Best time to visit Honduras

Weather-wise, there isn't really a bad time of year to visit Honduras. The climate is tropical and while you may get rain at any time of year, even in the wet season (May to October) it tends to come in short spurts. The dry season from November to April is a popular time to visit, especially February to May when the country comes to life with festivals. Head to the mountains to escape the heat at anytime of year.

Geography and environment

Honduras is a slice of tropical paradise with both Caribbean and Pacific coasts. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is the second-longest reef in the world and makes for stunning diving and snorkeling. It’s also home to the Bay of Islands, each with their own unique character and eco-reserves. For onshore adventure, head inland for fertile lowlands, banana plantations, slow-moving rivers and mountain ranges. Honduras shares borders with Nicaragua, Guatemala and El Salvador.

Top Picks

Top 10 Tropical Experiences in Honduras

1. Dive In

You can’t ask for better aquatic fun than in Honduras. Swim, dive or snorkel through turquoise waters in the company of thousands of fish, crazy coral and colourful creatures.

2. Two-Wheel Adventure

There’s plenty of adventure for landlubbers too. Hire a bicycle or scooter and head inland to explore volcanic landscapes, banana plantations and easy-going villages.

3. Rum and Rumba

Spend the evenings practicing your Spanish with the locals over a guaro (sugar cane liquor), then hit the dance floor to learn some Caribbean moves.

4. Explore Mayan Ruins

Explore Copan under the gaze of huge carved faces staring out from ancient walls. As you walk past monuments, statues and staircases it's hard not to wonder at the mysterious disappearance of such a creative civilisation.

5. Colonial Traditions

Visit churches and hang out in plazas for a very different taste of the tropics. Christian traditions introduced by the Spanish are still very strong here and Semana Santa celebrations are incredibly colourful.

6. Licuados

Cool off with a delicious fruit and milk licuado. Pick one up in any restaurant or a street stall as you explore.

7. Coconut Bread

This is a sweet treat that screams "I’m in the tropics and my tastebuds think it’s awesome!"

8. Beach Time

With all that sightseeing, drinking, eating and swimming under your belt, don’t forget to take time out to laze away on perfect white sand beaches.

9. Shopping

There are plenty of goodies in the local markets to fill up your backpack. For unusual mementos pick up woodcarvings, traditional instruments, paintings, straw hats and even cigars.

10. Go Bananas

If you’re in any doubt you’re in the tropics then grab a banana - they’re everywhere. Have a banana licuado, eat one fresh from the tree or try tajaditas (fried bananas).

FAQs on Honduras

HONDURAS:
Australia: Not required
Belgium: Not required
Canada: Not required
Germany: Not required
Ireland: Not required
Netherlands: Not required
New Zealand: Not required
South Africa: Not required
Switzerland: Not required
United Kingdom: Not required
USA: Not required

It's likely that you’ll encounter different types of toilets while travelling in Honduras. Western-style flushable toilets are commonly found in high-end resorts, hotels and restaurants, while squat toilets are common in rural areas and homes. Be prepared by carrying your own supply of toilet paper and soap, as these aren't always provided.

Drinking tap water in Honduras isn’t recommended. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of your trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to:
http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Honduras/public-holidays

Health and Safety

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From US?

From UK?

The World Health Organisation

Responsible Travel

Honduras Travel Tips

Intrepid is committed to travelling in a way that is respectful of local people, their culture, local economies and the environment. It's important to remember that what may be acceptable behaviour, dress and language in your own country, may not be appropriate in another. Please keep this in mind while travelling.

Top responsible travel tips for Honduras

1. Be considerate of Honduras’s customs, traditions, religion and culture.

2. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

3. Always dispose of litter thoughtfully, including cigarette butts.

4. When bargaining at markets, stay calm, be reasonable and keep a smile on your face. It's meant to be fun!

5. Learn some local language and don't be afraid to use it - simple greetings will help break the ice.